The Hon. (Ms.) Lakmali Hemachandra, Attorney-at-Law

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Speaker, regarding the Motion by Hon. Nizam Kariyapper to establish a Select Committee on the Administration of Justice, I believe we can all agree on the underlying concerns.

¶ 02 There is a backlog and delay in our justice system, and people suffer as a result. As lawyers and as MPs, we all know this is not new. For a long time, there has been a pile-up of cases and inefficiencies in justice delivery. The Hon. Minister of Justice explained causes clearly—significant shortages in physical and human resources across the justice system, including in the Attorney-General’s Department and court staff. In districts like Jaffna, there are shortages of translators. Court buildings and other assets are inadequate. These factors seriously contribute to delays.

¶ 03 We are a newly formed Government and are fully aware of these issues, both personally and as a movement. The NPP’s lawyers and members have long discussed these deficiencies. However, some in the Opposition are trying to create an impression that a new distrust has emerged under this Government regarding the judiciary, AG’s Department and Police. I do not think Hon. Nizam Kariyapper is trying to do that, but some are pushing that line.

¶ 04 These are longstanding systemic issues, not created after we assumed office. In my view, the situation is already changing—judicial independence is being restored; the Police are functioning more efficiently than before. Problems arising from politicization are being addressed.

¶ 05 Regarding the AG’s Department, the Hon. President, during the debate on the Defence Ministry, clearly stated that matters referred in 2015 saw indictments only by 2025—that is the extent of delay, with indications of undue pressure in the past.

¶ 06 Hon. Deputy Speaker, my time is up, so I will conclude. We should allow our justice institutions—the AG’s Department, Police, and Courts—to work with the new Government, to correct any reputational harm, and move forward. The Minister of Justice and the Government have the responsibility and capacity to do this. Therefore, at this time, I believe the proposal for a Select Committee is premature. I do not see a current necessity to establish such a Committee in Parliament.

¶ 07 Thank you, Sir.